Introduction:
Dry powdered bark of Asoka showed the presence of a fair amount of tannin, catachin and an organic chemical containing iron. Asoka bark is also used fresh as tea preparation; giving a beautiful red color to the tea and very tasty.

History:
Asoka bark has been used by Ayurvedic physicians from time immemorial to relief pain and cure all kinds of gynecological disorders. Many formulation of Asoka bark such as Asoka medicated wine, Asoka Ghee, Asoka milk are prepared keeping in mind the benefits and the health conditions of the female.

Manufacturing process:
Asoka powder is obtained from the bark of Saraca asoka. The barks collected are washed thoroughly to remove any impurities. Then the barks are completely sun-dried to reduce its moisture content. It is further kept in oven to assure 0% moisture content. The product obtained is then grinded and sieved. After this, the dry powder obtained is packed up for storage and transportation. Saraca asoka Powder is reddish-dark brown in color.

Chief Chemical component of the herb:
The bark of Saraca indica contains tannin, catechol, sterol and organic calcium compounds. Its methanol fraction contains haematoxylene, tannin, and water-soluble glycoside. The latter has glucose, galactose and mannose as sugars.

Pharmacokinetic of the herb with recent modern parameters:
Oxytocin activity of the plant was seen in rat and human isolated uterine preparations. These benefits are derived from classic Ayurveda 'tonics' combined with more specific herbs containing phytoestrogens or having an action on the central nervous system as well as on the ovaries. Ashoka (Saraca indica) have been shown to increase estrogen levels and to normalize the endometrium during menstruation.

Quality:
Prepare a decoction of the bark by boiling 4 ounces of the bark in 4 ounces of milk and 16 ounces of water till the water is evaporated. Take this with milk in two or three divided doses during the course of the day in menorrhagia. Start it from the 4th day of the monthly period. Continue taking this till the bleeding ceases.

This Milk preparation is effective: For uterine affections, especially in menorrhagia due to uterine fibroids and other causes. For internal bleeding, hemorrhoids and hemorrhagic dysentery

Doses:

• Bark decoction - 50 to 100 ml.
• Seed powder - 3-6 gm.
• Flower powder - 3-6 gm.
• Ashokarishta: 15 - 30 ml.
• Ashokkwath: 15 - 30 ml.
• Ashokghrita: 5 gm.